Thiruvananthapuram is bracing for major traffic disruptions in the next few days as President Droupadi Murma’s visit coincides with the Kerala School Sports Meet, which formally began on Tuesday, amid continued heavy rains in the state capital.
City police instituted extensive traffic diversions and deployed nearly 1,000 personnel to manage security and vehicle movement. The VIP route from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to Raj Bhavan will remain a sterile, heavily guarded corridor with strictly prohibited parking and round-the-clock surveillance.
Traffic was restricted in major urban areas including Shanghumugham, Palayam, Vellayambalam, Kowdiar and adjoining stretches. Several internal roads leading to these main corridors will also be placed under controlled access.
Officials warned that congestion is likely around sports meeting venues, including the Central Stadium and Putharikandam Maidan, where a massive food pavilion has been set up for athletes. With events planned for working days, movement around schools and offices is also expected to be significantly affected.
On the other hand, the State Highway 66 bypass is expected to face relatively less disruption. An additional 50 officers are deployed solely to coordinate transportation arrangements for sporting events, in addition to the manpower assigned to the President’s convoy duties. The public has been advised to park in designated parking areas, otherwise vehicles may be towed and violators may be prosecuted.
Motorists were also advised to take professional detours at intersections and feeder roads connecting the VIP route. Passengers commuting to domestic and international airport terminals have been advised to plan their journey in advance and use alternative routes.
Meanwhile, the Thiruvananthapuram rural police banned the use of drones in areas under Varkala police division ahead of the President’s visit to Sivagiri on October 23.
Varkala, Ayiroor, Anjuthengu, Anjuthengu Coastal and Kadinamkulam police station limits have been declared as “no fly zones for drones” till October 24. Police have warned that any violation of the drone ban will attract strict legal action.
Published – 21 Oct 2025 20:43 IST
